Oral History Project Coordinator

10 May 2024

Organisation: 30th Craigalmond Scout Group
Project: ‘30th Craigalmond Scout Group Oral History’
Job Title: Project Coordinator
Contract type: Freelance/ Fixed term / Possibility to Job-Share
Fixed Fee: To be discussed- dependent on hours/job share. Self-employed – responsible for own income tax, pension and NI contributions
Status: Fixed term from May 2024 to May 2025
Hours: To be discussed (flexible)
Location: Based at Davidson’s Mains, Edinburgh/ Home work
Accountable to: Dylan Lynch, Group Scout Leader (Lead Volunteer of the Scout Group)

Project Description:
Scouting started in Davidson’s Mains in 1924 and it is very much at the heart of the community. This year marks the 30th Craigalmond Scout’s centenary year and we see this as a historical milestone for our local Scouting group, as such we feel that this is a great opportunity to preserve and share our heritage as part of our celebrations. Our Oral History Project aims to capture and reflect on the experiences of our Scout Group and its members spanning the decades and by preserving the events, practices and changes that have shaped our Scout Group’s journey over the past hundred years, we hope to foster a sense of belonging among our present members and the broader community, while also inspiring the generations to come.
The Project Coordinator will work with volunteers and professionals to create a unique oral history archive and related outputs, including transcripts, audio clips, filmed interviews and an oral history-based heritage film. These digital products will be used in project outputs, exhibitions, heritage presentations and the project website. The Project Coordinator will deliver opportunities for cross-generational and multiracial learning activities through reminiscence events, talks and exhibitions. In addition, s/he will work with project volunteers to produce a project website packed with research findings, personal memories and photographs.

Job Description:

The Project Co-ordinator will be based in Davidson’s Mains, Edinburgh, and work closely with the Group Scout Leader and a large team of volunteers. The self-employed post holder will:
– Be responsible for coordinating the project and assisting with the creation of the oral history archive;
– Recruit, supervise and motivate a team of volunteers to record oral histories;
– Recruit, supervise and motivate a team of volunteers to research Scouting histories;
– Prepare source materials for use in the project’s outputs: website, pop-up exhibition, and educational materials;
– Organise project events, including training workshops, interviews, mobile exhibitions and reminiscence events;
– Research and prepare accessible written texts;
– Work with and coordinate workshop providers and volunteers to achieve project outcomes;
– Develop and maintain an online social media presence to publicise the project and recruit respondents;
– Promote equality and diversity in all aspects of work by developing and maintaining positive working relationships, ensuring that volunteers and respondents are treated fairly and with respect and dignity;
– Monitor the project’s day-to-day budget and approve daily expenditure in line with protocols;
– Speak publicly about the project to a variety of audiences;
– Monitor progress of the project against work plan targets and report regularly to the Steering Committee;
– Maintain complete and accurate administrative records;
– Strictly adhere to project deadlines;
– Carry out other relevant duties as directed by the Steering Committee.

Essential:

Educated to further or higher education level
Excellent empirical and desk-based research skills
Experienced community project coordinator
Experienced volunteer superviser
Excellent writing and communication skills
Excellent presentation skills
Experience of working with marginalised communities
Excellent team worker with strong leadership skills
Excellent work ethic
Excellent time-management skills

Desirable:

Demonstrable relevant project experience
Experience of producing well researched written and visual materials for a diverse audience
Experience of supporting young and adult volunteers
Experience of oral history methodology

References:

All applicants must submit the names, contact details and working relationship of two referees. Referees will only be contacted if the applicant is successful at interview.

Applications:

Applicants must submit a current CV, and a cover letter stating how you meet each of the essential and desirable criteria (where applicable) to: Dylan Lynch on 30thGSL@gmail.com

Closing date: Monday 27th May 2024

Interviews: Applicants must be available for interview on Friday 31st May 2024.

Please note, we are only able to respond to those applicants invited to interview.